The exploration begins

Each day the girls and I set out with backpacks to explore a different part of the city. Thursday we went to a Hindu Temple with the rather catchy name of Sri Thendayuthapani. The girls were really fascinated by the temple and the worshippers who were offering bags of rice and other food at different shrines. We then headed for Fort Canning Park which has great views of Singapore city.

On Friday we explored the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden which is a part of the Botanic Gardens and got drenched in their water play area and then spent half an hour trying to dry clothes out using the handdryer in the toilets. Note to self: bring bathers and towel next time. Exploring the parks and gardens is fun but can only be done in short bursts. There is a point where we just get so wet with sweat and Felicity begins to resemble a sweaty red tomato and then we need to seek airconditioning or at least fans of some kind. No wonder the national pastime appears to be shopping in air-conditioned malls.

Today we all went to the Jurong Bird Park which was brilliant. We highly recommend this to all vistiors. It is as large as any zoo with amazing enclosures. It boasts the world's largest aviary with the tallest man-made waterfall. Felicity was invited up to be part of the Birds of Prey Show and had to hold meat out on chopsticks for a bird to take. Our family has a knack for getting picked for these things. It helps that we jump up and down, waving our hands madly in the air, every time a presenter asks for a volunteer.